A French manor in the heart of Buckhead, this five-acre gated estate, known as “Maison des Bois,” looks as if it were transplanted directly from Provence. The owners—a 40-something married couple who both grew up in Buckhead—bought the home in early 2000; but they didn’t move in until 15 months later, following extensive renovations by two of Atlanta’s most respected designers—architect Yong Pak and interior decorator Dan Carithers—who gave the house a decidedly Gallic flair.

The homeowners say they were instantly smitten with the large wooded lot and winding driveway leading to the house on the hill, which is hidden from view among abundant oaks, dogwoods, and azaleas. But the house itself, they said, which was built in 1979, needed some work. So, they enlisted Pak and Carithers to help them achieve their dream.

The result is a spectacular 8,356-square-foot French country chateau, with seven bedrooms, seven fireplaces, formal living room, large dining room, great room, library, exercise room, and theater. The chef’s kitchen features an oversized island, whitewashed ceilings, butler’s pantry, and keeping room. The master suite boasts a spacious bedroom with 12-foot ceilings and a bath with steam shower and whirlpool tub. Almost every room incorporates materials imported from Europe, including rough-hewn oak beams, antique limestone mantles, and reclaimed floors.

A few years after the original renovation, the couple made even more changes to the property, adding a summer house with a spacious light-filled sitting area, full kitchen, bath, and dressing room. French doors open onto a limestone terrace and heated saltwater pool. The summer house has been the setting for many dinner parties and charity events, as well as ballet recitals and Cub Scout meetings. Beyond the pool and summer house is a children’s retreat that includes a large lawn, playhouse, tree house, zip line, and rope swing.

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